10 Most Talked-About Boston Wedding Venues

You've heard the hype -- now get the scoop on these top Boston wedding reception sites.

by Caitlin Moscatello

Artists for Humanity

Use the EpiCenter to create a modern wedding that's completely your vision from start to finish. If that sounds like too much work, fear not; a list of preferred vendors is provided to help you select everything from your catering to rental equipment. This light-flooded space feels like a mix of an art gallery and swank city loft (thanks to the 18-foot ceiling) and fits up to 600 people. (617) 268-7620, AFHBoston.com

Boston Public Library

There are few venues Boston weddings planners talk about with as much excitement as the Boston Public Library, complete with marble floors, tall ceilings and a key location. Hold your cocktail hour in the library's courtyard, and then move inside the 115-year-old building for the reception. The space is ideal for ceremonies as well (we suggest using the staircase as an aisle). (617) 859-2212, BPL.org

Commandant's House

Fit anywhere from 50 to 300 people in this 1805 waterfront home that overlooks Boston Harbor and the city's skyline. The detailed architecture and old-world charm make it perfect for an indoor wedding, but the 6,000-square foot lawn (ideal for a tent reception) is hard to pass up, too. (617) 263-6490, CommandantsHouse.com

Hampshire House

Have your ceremony in the library at this historic home in Beacon Hill, and then move into one of the four other rooms for the reception. Having a large event? The entire house fits up to 500 people. Fireplaces add to the cozy, romantic ambience in the fall and winter. (617) 227-9600, HampshireHouse.com

The Liberty Hotel

Bright carpets, dramatic chandeliers and a modern-meets-elegant decor help make this ballroom anything but your typical reception space. The room fits up to 225 and is flanked by tall windows and purple curtains for even more flair. Or, if a ballroom's not your thing, host 70 to 120 people out on the hotel's esplanade. In-house catering only. (617) 224-4000, LibertyHotel.com

Museum of Science

Hold your reception at this alternative space, and tables, chairs, security, a dance floor, on-site parking, an event planner and a fully customizable reception space are included in the rental package. Another option: Celebrate in a tented space near the Museum's Washburn Pavilion and let the Charles River serve as your reception's backdrop. The museum's main exhibit hall, the Blue Wing, holds up to 170 people for a seated dinner. (617) 589-0125, MOS.org

New England Aquarium

It might not be the most traditional venue, but Boston couples have been holding their receptions at the aquarium for years--thanks in part to its open floor plan, full catering staff and, well, lively decor (as in, a large tank filled with sharks and stingrays). The main space fits 250 seated guests, with both cocktail-style and sit-down setups available. (617) 973-5205, NEAQ.org

Pier4

During warmer months, Pier 4 at the Courageous Sailing Center in Charlestown is a secret gem for couples looking for a city wedding with a New England vibe. Guests will love the killer views, and the facility puts a tent up during the summer months for a fee. Note: The pier fits up to 1,000 guests. (617) 242-3821, CourageousSailing.org

State Room

You'll be hard-pressed to find a Boston venue that shows off the city better than this popular location, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and open floor plan. Located on the 33rd floor of 60 State Street, this glam ceremony and reception space can fit more than 850 guests, has valet parking and offers in-house catering. (617) 854-5000, LongwoodEvents.com

Taj Hotel

Guests' chins will hit the floor when they walk into the ballroom at this five-star hotel, where the staff has a reputation among local wedding planners for bending over backward to accommodate couples' whims. If you're inviting anywhere from 100 to 260 guests, check out the two-story ballroom overlooking the city's Public Garden. (617) 536-5700, TajHotels.com